What is supply chain management?
For a product of any brand to reach our hands, it is necessary for it to go through several processes that make up the so-called supply chain. This concept has evolved, leaving behind the traditional form of marketing, and has adapted to new technologies and e-commerce.
What is supply chain management?
Supply chain management (SCM) is the administration of goods, data, and finances related to a product or service, this goes from the acquisition of raw materials to the sale of the final product. SCM includes the planning of all these processes, so that they are optimally executed to provide the customer with a first-rate service or product.
The stages of supply chain management are:
- Plan: Organizes strategic plans to meet product demand and avoid shortages.
- Source: This stage involves suppliers so that materials come from reliable sources and quality products can be produced.
- Manufacturing: The company fabricates the products, does materials testing, checks storage, and monitores packaging, so the final product can be produced correctly.
- Delivery: At this stage, logistics is fundamental and focuses on getting the finished products to consumers through proper transportation. Inventory management systems, warehousing, and transportation must also be involved in this process.
- Return: This stage includes the return of damaged products or those that had some inconvenience with the customer.
Benefits
Correct supply chain management is of utmost importance for the brand image to have a competitive advantage over the rest of the market, other benefits are:
- Better ability to predict customer’s demands.
- Fewer process incidents.
- More efficient logistics.
- Improved quality.
- Reduced process costs.
Today, SCM is supported by technology to make process management more efficient. At the same time, it allows companies to expand internationally, while it facilitates customers to have a flexible experience adaptable to their needs. The planning of supply chain strategies allows to solve challenges and identify risk areas to prevent possible incidents.
Creating a strategy to improve supply chain management is a complex process in which the needs and capabilities of both the company and its customers must be considered, as well as having an expert who can offer quick and effective solutions. Below, we recommend a service that will help your company in logistics, e-commerce operations, marketing, technology, and many other aspects.
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